Audio technology RAD allows blind people to play racing games

Bryan Smith, one of the leading experts in computer science at Columbia University, not without reason, believes that the current video games for visually impaired gamers leave much to be desired. However, he did not limit himself to criticism alone and developed the audio audit interface (RAD), which he claims can be integrated into almost any racing game.

RAD uses two systems of auditory control that the player perceives through conventional headphones . One “sound slider” (characteristic tone) indicates the speed and trajectory of the car, and the other, using directional sounds, warns players about the upcoming turns on the track. Unlike some games intended for the blind, RAD does not suppress players with a lot of information, nor does it distract them from the game itself.

To test RAD, Brian Smith invited 15 volunteers. As a result, they all preferred the interface he proposed to the popular among blind gamers game Mach 1. Inspired by success, Smith plans to further improve his offspring by adding additional game elements, in particular, racing several cars. He also plans to adapt his technology to other games.